1 dead, 3 missing after cabin cruiser capsizes near Alcatraz Island

A 50-foot cabin cruiser carrying 20 adults capsized in San Francisco Bay near Alcatraz Island on Tuesday afternoon, leaving one person dead and three others missing, according to authorities. The incident, which unfolded around 3:30 p.m. Local time, triggered an extensive search-and-rescue operation involving the U.S. Coast Guard, San Francisco Fire Department, and private vessels. The boat, named Volare, was based in Stockton, California, and reportedly had launched from the St. Francis Yacht Club. Initial reports of a fire on board were later dismissed, with officials confirming no evidence of flames.

San Francisco Fire Chief Dean Crispen described the vessel as a three-deck pontoon boat that was nearly fully submerged when rescuers arrived, with its motor still running and leaking fuel. A man in severe distress was found in the water and transported to shore, where he was pronounced dead after receiving CPR. The deceased, an adult male, was not immediately identified. A dog onboard also perished. Thirteen passengers were rescued, with three others taken to hospitals in stable condition. Authorities initially believed 19 people were aboard but updated the count to 20 after witness accounts. Some sources describe the vessel as a 50-foot cabin cruiser, while others refer to it as a three-deck pontoon boat.

The incident occurred during what officials described as a memorial service, with most passengers identified as family members. Crispen noted that the group had likely gathered on the vessel for this purpose. The boat’s exact cause of capsizing remained under investigation, though rough waters and strong winds were cited as potential factors. Rescue efforts focused on open ocean near the western side of the Golden Gate Bridge, with divers, helicopters, and thermal imaging technology deployed. The search for the three missing individuals continued through the night.

Witnesses reported seeing the boat on fire before rescuers arrived, but no flames were confirmed upon their arrival. Aaron Anfinson, captain of a nearby vessel, recounted how his crew encountered the sinking boat, which had already begun to submerge. Passengers were in the water, and some remained aboard. Anfinson’s team distributed life jackets and assisted in rescuing at least one injured individual. “It was scary,” he said, adding, “I don’t want to see anybody in that situation.”

Alcatraz Island, a former federal prison now managed as a national park, is located about a mile north of San Francisco’s shoreline. The site, known for its inescapable waters and historical significance, drew thousands of visitors annually. The incident occurred in an area prone to strong currents and unpredictable weather, complicating rescue efforts. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie praised first responders for their “heroic” work, emphasizing the city’s commitment to locating the missing. A family reunification center was set up at Fort Mason to assist those affected.

The search for the missing remains active, with officials pledging to continue efforts until all possibilities are exhausted. Authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the capsizing, but they continue to investigate. The incident has prompted renewed focus on boating safety, particularly during events involving large groups. As the community grapples with the tragedy, the focus remains on supporting survivors and uncovering the circumstances that led to the disaster.